The rumors between the Chicago Blackhawks and the Montreal Canadiens are persistent, but this time it involves a coach.
As first reported by Frank Seravalli and confirmed by yours truly, the Chicago Blackhawks have reportedly seeked permission to speak to assistant coach Luke Richardson regarding the head coaching job in the Windy City.
Coaching updates, per sources:
— Frank Seravalli (@frank_seravalli) June 9, 2022
> #Blackhawks have sought permission to intvw #GoHabsGo Luke Richardson & #Canucks Brad Shaw. Derek King still a strong candidate.
> David Quinn intvw'ing w #LGRW & #Flyers
> #Flyers intvw'd Jeff Blashill, believe Bruce Cassidy also on their list.
Early candidates also include current interim coach Derek King and Vancouver Canucks assistant coach Brad Shaw. The Detroit Red Wings, Boston Bruins, Vegas Golden Knights, Dallas Stars, Philadelphia Flyers and Winnipeg Jets are all looking for a new bench boss. Not to mention that Jay Woodcroft in Edmonton and Andrew Brunette in Florida both still have the interim tag on them as well.
Some prominent names are on the free agent coaching list which include recently fired Bruce Cassidy, Barry Trotz, Alain Vigneault, Paul Maurice, Claude Julien, John Tortorella, Peter DeBoer and Rick Tocchet. The names of Sergei Fedorov and Patrick Roy have recently come up as candidates to lead the Detroit Red Wings.
The request to speak to Richardson however is a sign that teams are seeking to move on from the old guard. Not to mention that a team like the Blackhawks that has committed to overhaul the roster, doesn’t necessarily want to commit to a mega contract on a veteran coach.
While at times being out-coached due to his inexperience, Richardson really shined in the Eastern Conference finals in 2021 when he led the Canadiens to the Stanley Cup finals when Dominique Ducharme was sent home due to being tested positive with COVID-19. Richardson’s extremely patient approach to the game and his respectful temperament towards the staff and players makes him a popular figure amongst the team.
Losing him would be a blow to the organization as many would be quick to point out that he has grown a rapid professional and personal relationship with Martin St. Louis. However, the Canadiens have rarely held a staff member back in order to gain a promotion with another franchise.
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